Ryder Cup reaction: Darren Clarke

Captain Darren Clarke of Europe speaks during closing ceremonies after the singles matches of the 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine

Darren Clarke delivered a poignant speech at the closing ceremony of the 2016 Ryder Cup as he led the tributes to the late great Arnold Palmer.

He said: “All the 24 players on this stage did themselves, their families and Samuel Ryder himself, proud. This week has been played under the shadow of Mr Palmer’s passing.

“But I’m sure he is up there looking down on us all with a smile on his face.”

Everyone at Hazeltine joined Clarke in paying tribute to Arnie by chanting his name with both teams were black blazers as a show of respect during the closing ceremony.

The European captain went on to say: “Guys, you are not simply 12 great golfers, you are 12 great men who could not have given a single ounce more of effort and determination this week.

“To my good friend Davis and your team, sincere congratulations, you played some great golf here this week and you deserved your victory.

“We are Europe and we stand together – we have shown this in the past and we will continue to show this in the future.

“We have been honoured to be guests here this week. Thank you to the PGA of America and to everyone at Hazeltine National.

“Most importantly, thank you to the United States of America.

“The competitive fires of Hazeltine may now be flickering to their embers, but the flame will be ignited in Paris.

“The Ryder Cup is special, unique and like nothing else in golf. It is a fire that burns inside of all of us, one that will never go out.”

Also at the closing ceremony U.S.A captain Davis Love III said: “We came in as a team and are going even more of one, that’s what makes Ryder Cup golf so incredible. For three days, we take an individual sport and play for something bigger and grander than ourselves.”